why make this recipe
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic dish. It’s a comforting and filling meal that combines the flavors of chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese in a creamy sauce. This casserole is perfect for weeknight dinners and is easy to prepare. Plus, it can feed a crowd, making it great for gatherings or family meals.
how to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients:
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 9 ounces sliced deli-style black forest ham, cut into strips
- 8 ounces sliced Swiss cheese
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (optional)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 6 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 3 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 cups Panko breadcrumbs
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese, and set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and mix well to combine.
- Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with 4 tablespoons of softened butter and sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.
how to serve Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Serve the casserole warm straight from the oven. It pairs well with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. You can also enjoy it with bread or over rice for a complete meal. The cheesy goodness makes it a favorite for both kids and adults alike!
how to store Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the whole casserole in the oven until heated through.
tips to make Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker option.
- Adjust spices to your taste; add more cayenne for heat.
- Ensure the sauce is thick to avoid a watery casserole.
- For a crispy topping, broil for an additional 1-2 minutes at the end.
variation
You can substitute other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor. Adding some veggies, like broccoli or spinach, can also boost the nutrition and flavor of the dish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly before shredding.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it the day before, refrigerate it, and then bake it when you’re ready to serve.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour and Panko breadcrumbs to make it gluten-free. Just make sure all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, ham, and Swiss cheese. Set aside.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
- Stir in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, Dijon mustard, lemon juice (if using), garlic powder, salt, nutmeg, and cayenne pepper. Cook until the mixture thickens.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken mixture and mix well to combine.
- Spread the mixture into a greased casserole dish.
- In a small bowl, mix Panko breadcrumbs with 4 tablespoons of softened butter, then sprinkle over the casserole.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
- Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot.